Bayer Dream Polymer Project

The research project of using CO2 to produce plastics has made new achievements.

In laboratory tests, Bayer added CO2 at the precursor stage, further reducing the oil consumption.

The research project aims at using carbon dioxide instead of petroleum to produce plastics. The latest technology also expands the type of plastic that can be produced.

In this research project called dream polymers, Bayer materials technology has unremittingly excavated the new uses of CO2.

"Now we have successfully reduced the oil content of raw materials to 60%."

ChristophG rtler, a project manager, said.

In dreams

In the new process developed by the project, CO2 was used two times.

First, the greenhouse gas is directly mixed with a new precursor (POM polycarbonate polyol) to replace 20% of the oil.

Second, CO2 is used to produce a chemical substance, which is indirectly added to the precursor, and then 20% of the oil is replaced.

"Therefore, the ratio of substitution for raw materials has reached 40%."

G u rtler added.

In addition, the types of plastics produced by CO2 are also increasing.

G rtler introduced: "now we can also produce thermoplastic polyurethane, film or casting elastomer by this way."

These plastics are widely used, including automotive interior accessories, cable sheath and ski boots and other sports equipment.

The laboratory tests have proved that the production process is feasible in principle, but he adds that the technology has not yet been commercialized.

It is reported that the dream polymer project has been supported by the German federal education research department.

Some German research institutes outside the company have also participated in relevant research work, including CAT catalyst center, Leibniz catalysis Institute and Chemical Technology Research Institute.